Protect and Serve with a Criminal Justice Degree
Earn a criminal justice degree and prepare for careers focused on public safety, law enforcement, corrections and related fields. STLCC offers both an associate in applied science (AAS) degree and a certificate of proficiency (CP) to help you build the knowledge and skills needed to begin or advance your career in criminal justice.
You’ll learn about criminal justice processes, ethical decision-making, communication and the policies that guide professionals in the field. The program prepares you for entry-level opportunities in criminal justice while providing a strong foundation for continued education and career advancement.
What is Criminal Justice at St. Louis Community College?
The criminal justice program at STLCC prepares you to begin a career in law enforcement, corrections, courts and other justice-related fields. The program introduces you to the major components of the U.S. criminal justice system, how they work together and how they impact individuals and communities.
You’ll explore the role of criminal justice professionals while examining the social, legal and ethical issues that influence public safety.
Coursework focuses on areas such as:
- How law enforcement, courts and corrections systems operate.
- Constitutional rights and legal procedures.
- Crime, criminal behavior and public safety responses.
- Interviewing techniques and professional documentation.
- Historical and current social issues affecting the justice system.
What Can You Do with a Criminal Justice Associate Degree?
A criminal justice associate degree from STLCC prepares you for entry-level roles across the justice system and public service fields. You’ll develop an understanding of law enforcement, courts, corrections and community safety while building skills in communication, critical thinking, documentation and ethical decision-making.
Graduates may pursue opportunities in areas such as law enforcement, including patrol and community policing, security and investigative services, case management, emergency dispatch, correctional facilities and court or legal administration. These roles allow you to support public safety efforts, assist individuals and communities and contribute to the work of justice professionals.
The degree also provides a strong foundation for continued career growth. You can enter the workforce after graduation or continue your education toward a bachelor’s degree to prepare for more advanced opportunities in criminal justice, public administration, leadership and related fields. Whether you’re beginning a career in public service or planning to continue your education, this degree gives you the knowledge and skills to move forward in the justice field.
Criminal Justice Programs
- Degree offered: Associate in applied science (AAS)
Certificate of Proficiency (CP) also available - Locations: Florissant Valley, Forest Park, Meramec, Online
- AAS Hours to complete: 60
- CP Hours to complete: 30
- Program contact name: Jennifer Lorentz
- Program contact email: jmoldthan@stlcc.edu
Tuition for district residents is $127 per credit hour for in-district students. Find out more about our straightforward and low-cost tuition structure.
Why You Should Choose STLCC's Criminal Justice Program
Graduate With Little or No Debt
We believe cost should never be a barrier to achieving your potential. Save more than $4,700 per year with tuition that's one-third less than other local institutions. Plus, we'll help you navigate scholarship options and financial aid.
Schedules Built for Your Busy Life
Fitting a quality education into your busy life is easy with the flexibility STLCC offers: day and evening, in-person, live virtual lecture, online and hybrid.
Expert Faculty
STLCC draws its faculty members from professional ranks, including judges, lawyers, police officers, detectives and federal agents. Students will learn from working professionals who take them far beyond the textbook and share insight into real cases.
Hands-on Learning
STLCC covers hands-on job skills that others don’t teach. Students will gain a working knowledge of criminal law and procedures, constitutional law and rules of evidence and criminal investigations.
STLCC. What's your reason?